{Africa} Food aid rethink 'is essential' (BBC) {Oxfam report}

[eppur_se_muova]

Food emergencies in Africa have almost tripled in the last two decades and the developed world needs to review its approach to aid, says Oxfam.

In a hard-hitting report the aid agency admits that famine relief is often too late and too costly.

The report comes hot on the heels of a UN warning that the poorest nations are at a "critical moment of transition".

Oxfam argues that emergency aid has distracted attention from the pressing need for long-term investment.

Niger crisis

Food aid has increased in recent years, Oxfam said, but most of it is imported. This means it can take months to deliver and can cost up to 50% more than locally purchased goods.
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more: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/5210014.stm